Do Lady ferns go dormant?

Yes, they are deciduous and will naturally lose their fronds in the winter. They will sprout new growth again in the spring.

Should I cut off the dropping fronds?

Yes, trim them back to the soil line to keep the plant tidy. This allows the plant to focus energy on new growth.

Why is my Lady fern dropping its fronds? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant is near a heater or air conditioning vent.
Measure the humidity levels in the room.
Inspect the fronds for signs of extreme dryness.

Likely causes

Dry air
Most likely
How to tell: The fronds become brittle, turn brown at the edges, and then fall off. This often happens in winter when indoor heating dries out the air.
What to do: Place the fern on a pebble tray filled with water to increase local humidity. You can also mist the fronds daily or move the plant to a bathroom with a window.
Temperature shock
Possible
How to tell: The fronds wilt and drop suddenly after being placed near a drafty window or a heater. The plant looks healthy one day and collapses the next.
What to do: Move the fern to a stable location away from air vents, radiators, or drafty doors. Keep the room temperature between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your lady fern

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the entire plant loses its fronds rapidly, it is in severe distress. It is normal for the plant to go dormant and lose fronds in late autumn as winter approaches.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your fern away from direct airflow and maintain consistent moisture in the soil.

Lady fern: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your lady fern and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do Lady ferns go dormant?: Yes, they are deciduous and will naturally lose their fronds in the winter. They will sprout new growth again in the spring.
Should I cut off the dropping fronds?: Yes, trim them back to the soil line to keep the plant tidy. This allows the plant to focus energy on new growth.

Why is my Lady fern dropping its fronds?